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Seats filling up fast at Campus International

The Campus International School (CIS) opened its door to the first class of 2010, kindergarten through 2nd grade students, in the recently retrofitted building of the First United Methodist Church.

The rooms and large open space have been renovated into newly furnished classrooms, faculty offices and multiple learning areas for new students to enjoy.
The hallways are filled with students’ artwork and the rooms are brightly painted and decorated.

The eager arms being raised in classrooms set an incredibly positive and welcoming tone in the new building. It’s apparent that CIS has created an atmosphere for students to receive an education through a teaching staff with an interest in children and their desire to succeed.

The school is allowed a maximum enrollment of 120 students in K-2 in the first year. There are currently 116 students; however, the remaining four slots will be filled after the process of weaving through the waiting list is complete.

The school offers international baccalaureate curriculum for K-2 and will expand to additional grades each year until finally becoming a fullfledged K-12 school. This public school has open enrollment and includes all levels of academic ability with great diversity.

CIS Principal Julie Beers was approached to take on the position after stepping down as the eight-year principal of Cleveland Heights High School.

“I was excited,” she said. “It was an opportunity of a lifetime.”

“One of the main focuses we address throughout our school is the idea of collaboration,” said Dr. Ron Abate, liaison of CIS and professor in the College of Education.

The floors act as one classroom and the individual rooms serve more as “shared learning centers.” This allows students and their teachers to work and learn together as a single unit.

The school follows the international baccalaureate curriculum, which focuses on global perspectives and foreign languages like Chinese.

“The innovative program executes its vision to implement the best practices that other schools can use,” said Beers. “I hope it impacts all of Cleveland schools to make them better.”

Abate said parents play a large role, too.

“Parental involvement is a huge part of the school’s success,” said Abate. “The parents of children attending the school’s events, open houses and meetings present a sufficient amount of dedication and support to their children and the school.”

After opening nearly two months ago, CIS has already created a nationwide image for itself. The school received recognition from the Plain Dealer and was mentioned by the New York Times as an innovative urban school.

Beers said she is grateful to hold the position as school principal. She has sincere interest in the student’s education and has a great appreciation for the faculty and staff.

“I feel very honored to work with very committed people,” said Beers. “I love being able to work with CSU and am grateful for all of the resources they have provided for us to benefit the children’s education.”

Abate also expressed his appreciation for the support from CSU departments and students, who have been working with the new school.

CIS is a good example of taking action toward fixing the public education system in Cleveland, said Beers.

“We want to become a school that people will move to the city for,” she said.
It appears to be a great addition to the Cleveland community and is capable of offering a place for children to receive the substantial education they deserve.